22 Comments

I would wholeheartedly endorse the books recommended in this piece of writing particularly ‘We are the Ark’ by Mary Reynolds. The illustrations by Ruth Evans speak “a thousand words”. Equally, other artists like Enagh Farrell (enaghfarrell.com) and Jane Carkill (Illustratorsireland.com) capture the natural world in a haunting and mythical way. Mary Reynolds talks about giving Mother Earth her sovereignty back in not telling her what clothes to wear (see her You Tube video “Saving the earth patch by patch. Setting her free to be sovereign, Aug 10th 2022). The book ‘Wild Embrace’ by Anja Murray is also a powerful reference book to have on your shelf. Your garden is a credit to you Clarice and its so interesting to see a ‘work in progress’ report for amateurs like me. Hope Winter yields some gems.

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Thank you, Gwyn. I agree, of course, with your recommended books!

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Clarice, this is such a delightful read! It's fascinating to see how your garden went from a boggy blank slate to a lush, vibrant ecosystem. I can’t help but imagine that if the plants could talk, they'd probably be gossiping about the neighborhood's dramatic shift from neat lawns to a mini-wilderness. Keep up the great work; your garden’s definitely living its best life. 🌿🌻

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I'm really happy that you liked the post, Mohika, as well as the concept of rewilding. My husband and I have developed a closer, more observant and more curious relationship with the grasses, ferns, flowers and insects in our garden than we have had before. It has really been an amazing journey that I wish more people had the chance to take.

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That’s beautiful. And Mother Nature thanks you heartily. we have not totally rewilded, but partially. Underneath the orchard, we’ve let nature do its thing, as well as in an area called the secret garden. I also have a raised bed of wildflowers in my veg garden, and my yield level has gone up enormously.

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Wildflowers attract pollinating insects, so that's a wonderful thing to do for your veg. As well as adding beauty for your eyes!

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I particularly like the Nigella flowers and the Yarrow.

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I like them, too.

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A beautiful story of change and renewal, combining your prose and (I'm guessing) Gerhard's photos.

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Thank you, Allan. Gerhard definitely takes the best photos, but the ones in this article were mine!

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Well done! And how much can be accomplished just letting nature take the lead.

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That is really true.

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I love that natural look!

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Thank you, Betty!

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What a lovely thing you've done for the world!

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Thank you, Michael!

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What a magical story of regeneration and renewal. It is amazing how your yard has changed in only a few years and all of the fantastic creatures who are now finding a home in it. It will be fun to see who else arrives in the next few years, the flowers, insects, birds and animals. And fairies!

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Absolutely. I am sure the fairies are here already. Hopefully I will be able to see and communicate with them soon.

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What a glorious story, Clarice! I love the idea of "rewilding" a garden and becoming passionate about every growing thing in it--whether plant, insect or amphibian--and learning their names and habits. From the pictures, it looks just enchanting!

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Thank you, Ruth. It really has affected our lives in positive ways. And to our eyes, it is beautiful!

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Amazing !! So beautiful! I love the transformation ✨ 🌸

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Thank you, Brenna!

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